Method for preparing a heated flavored beverage

Abstract

An automated hot beverage dispensing machine and method for producing hot beverages is shown. The preferred apparatus includes a plurality of flavoring reservoirs connected through pumps and valves to a plenum that dispenses the flavoring directly into a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber also receives milk and steam, facilitating mixing of the milk, steam, and flavoring, and dispensing the mixture into a serving cup. The dispensing machine may include a coffee brewing system, whereby the machine can produce flavored lattés, cappuccinos, and the like. In the preferred embodiment, pressurized steam is directed through a Venturi assembly that draws in refrigerated milk and ambient air and delivers the fluids to a vortex mixer to produce steamed and / or foamed milk. The flavoring is delivered to the vortex mixer, and steam is channeled to the plenum to facilitate delivery of the flavoring and maintain the cleanliness of the plenum.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to automated drink machines and, more particularly, to automated drink dispensing machines that incorporate steamed and / or foamed milk.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Automated hot drink dispensing machines, and particularly those that incorporate steamed and / or foamed milk with or without coffee drinks, such as cappuccinos and lattés, are known. A particular example of one such machine is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,148, to Anderson et al., which is hereby incorporated by reference. Such machines, however, have not included the capability to dispense a variety of different syrups, sauces and / or other flavorings into either a steamed milk stream or a latté or cappuccino. In today's market, the demand for flavored drinks is increasing; therefore, an automated machine that incorporates this capability is desired.[0003]When flavorings are added to beverages, even in manually operated coffee machines, flavored syrups and ot...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables the creation of flavored, heated beverages with evenly distributed flavorings in the milk, enhancing both the presentation and taste, while maintaining cleanliness and efficiency in the dispensing process.

Problems solved by technology

Such machines, however, have not included the capability to dispense a variety of different syrups, sauces and / or other flavorings into either a steamed milk stream or a latté or cappuccino.

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